From your first photo to the piece back on your table.
1. Send photos
Email info@kintsugiterrace.com or use the request form. Please include:
- The dimensions of the piece
- The dimensions of the chipped or broken areas
- Whether the piece is glazed on the interior and/or the exterior
- Whether any pieces are missing
- Whether you plan to use the piece for anything other than display
Photos of the front, the back and each damaged area help most.
2. Quote & timeline
Within a few days you receive a quote, an honest timeline and instructions for sending the piece. Traditional kintsugi takes at least two to three months; urushi cures slowly, and each layer needs its own weeks in the humid cabinet.
Every piece is quoted individually. Silver finishing is also available.
3. Send or drop off
In Fukuoka, drop-off is by appointment. From Toronto, Canada and anywhere else, pieces travel by post. A few things that keep them safe on the way:
- Keep every fragment, even the smallest. Do not glue anything.
- Wrap each fragment separately in tissue or bubble wrap.
- Double-box, with soft filling between the two boxes.
- Declare the piece as “ceramic for repair, no commercial value” on the customs form.
4. Restoration
The fragments are joined with mugi-urushi, a paste of urushi and wheat flour. Gaps are filled with sabi, urushi mixed with clay powder, then shaped and smoothed. Layer after layer of urushi is painted on and left to cure, and finally the seam is dusted with gold powder while the last coat is still tacky.
No epoxy, no synthetic glue. The piece stays food-safe.
5. Back to your table
The piece is returned by post or collected in person, together with a few care notes. Urushi and gold last for generations with a little kindness:
- Wash gently by hand with mild soap. No dishwasher.
- No microwave, oven or open flame.
- Avoid soaking for long periods and scrubbing the gold line.
- Keep out of strong direct sunlight.
Do you have a piece with a story to tell?